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DHSS Press Release



Josette Manning, Secretary
Jen Brestel, Director of Communications  
302-605-0577
Email: Jennifer.brestel@delaware.gov

DPH Media Relations Coordinator Contact:
Laura Matusheski
Email: DPHMedia@Delaware.gov

Date: December 22, 2023
DHSS-12-2023





DPH REPORTS ZERO CASES OF HIGH BLOOD LEAD LEVELS IN CHILDREN CONSUMING RECALLED CINNAMON APPLESAUCE POUCHES


Applesause

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports from multiple states that suggest children may have higher blood lead levels (BLLs) after consuming recalled cinnamon-containing applesauce products. The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) has received no reports of children with high BLLs in response to the recall of cinnamon-containing applesauce products. Signs and symptoms may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in activity level and anemia. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has received reports of 67 confirmed cases, 122 probable cases and 16 suspected cases from 33 different states as of December 15. The CDC has advised clinicians and health departments to consider the possibility of illness due to lead exposure and report cases to their local health authorities.

Per the FDA, the recalled WanaBana, Schnucks, or Weis-brand apple cinnamon pouches should not be eaten, sold, or served. Due to the long shelf life of these products, consumers should check their homes and dispose of them. To prevent others from salvaging recalled products from the garbage, consumers and retailers should carefully open the pouch and empty the contents into a trash can before discarding the packaging. After discarding the product, clean up any spills and wash your hands.

DPH remains vigilant as it monitors statewide conditions. Cases can be reported to the DPH Office of Lead Poisoning Prevention by emailing HSPContact@Delaware.gov. For more information about specific recalled products, visit https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches-november-2023.

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH), a division of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, is a nationally accredited public health agency recognized by the Public Health Accreditation Board for its outstanding dedication to driving change through innovation. DPH is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind, or speech-disabled can contact DPH by first dialing 711 using specialized devices (i.e., TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free; to learn more about how it works, visit delawarerelay.com.



Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.





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